Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and filling breakfast or brunch dish that combines creamy eggs, flavorful sausage, cream cheese, and crispy hashbrowns in one casserole. This dish is easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it great for holidays or weekend mornings!
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns (shredded or cubed, thawed)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (for extra color and flavor)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Once cooked, stir in the softened cream cheese and mix until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Hashbrown Layer
- In the prepared baking dish, spread the thawed hashbrowns in an even layer.
- Spoon the sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the hashbrowns.
Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hashbrown layers in the baking dish, ensuring everything is evenly covered.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly. If the casserole starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Cook Notes
- Cream Cheese: Be sure to soften the cream cheese to make it easier to mix into the sausage. It will add a creamy richness to the casserole.
- Crispy Topping: If you prefer a crispier hashbrown layer, you can pre-bake the hashbrowns for 10 minutes before adding the other ingredients.
- Cheese: You can use other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for added flavor.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a meatless version.
- Spicy Sausage Casserole: Use spicy sausage and add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Bacon and Sausage Casserole: Add cooked, crumbled bacon along with the sausage for an extra indulgent breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with fresh fruit, toast, or a light side salad for a more balanced breakfast or brunch.
Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With layers of sausage, eggs, hashbrowns, and cheese, this easy casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy this comforting, crowd-pleasing meal!